44 photos that show the evolution of Michelle Obama's killer style

The INSIDER Summary:

• First Lady Michelle Obama is renowned for her fashion sense.
• Here's a look at some of her greatest looks over the past eight years.

Michelle Obama has redefined First Lady fashion.

From her commotion-causing sleeveless portrait way back in 2009 to the glittering Versace gown she donned for her final state dinner this month, FLOTUS has continued to charm America with her knack for selecting elegant but down-to-earth designs.

Need proof that we all love her taste? NPR reported that many of the items she wears sell out almost instantly. One academic even did a study of the First Lady's effect on fashion and concluded that, when Obama wears a garment, that garment's designer can get a financial boost to the tune of $38 million.

But she's not trying to create waves with her wardrobe. Actually, her personal style philosophy is simple:

"I always say that women should wear whatever makes them feel good about themselves. That's what I always try to do," she told Vogue in 2013.

Here's a look at how her style has evolved since she first hit the national stage.